Page 70 of Rudra Nandani: The Saga of Control And Seduction

Suddenly, Hridhaan’s cries echoed as Suman brought him out.“Nandani, he woke up crying,”

Badimaa looked at him and asked,“Who is he?” Suman handed him to me, and I stood up to calm him down.

“He is Hridhaan. His mother passed away six months ago, and his father died in the war. He was one of Ranaji's friends. Ranaji and I have decided to adopt him,” she listened to me and stretched forth her hands.

“Ohh, give him to me,” she said, and I handed him to her.

She patted his back and asked,“You know how to care for a baby?” I shook my head and said,“No, I don't. But I will learn with time,”

She remained silent for a few moments and reluctantly inquired,“One of my daughters-in-law lost her baby and then got widowed. She is in that trauma and has isolated herself from the world. If you don't mind, can she foster him?” I pursed my lips, unsure of what to say.

“Badimaa, I think you should ask Ranaji regarding this,” I said. She nodded and instructed one of the attendees to inform him tocome and meet her.

?? ? ? ?

? Rudra ?

Following my conversation with Nandani, I felt furious and disappointed. I knew she was a princess, and her upbringing was different from that of commoners like us. However, the way she referred to my Maasimaa, her father's mistress, with a tone that conveyed disgust, troubled me.

We were married, yet there was an inexplicable detachment between us—perhaps because of our backgrounds, her social status, our differing perceptions, or the contrasting circumstances in which we grew up.

But she had to understand that my aunt was a motherly figure in my life. She raised us three. I had an idea somewhere that she wouldn’t be too benevolent with her, and I wasn’t expecting that either.

I understood her point of view as well. She was, in fact, right in her perspective because my Maasimaa was her father's mistress, who had spent a great deal of time with him. Therefore, it was only natural for her not to harbour any affection towards her.

Sighing, I walked toward the great hall when an attendant’s call caught my attention. When I turned to look at him, he bowed to greet me.

“Yes,” I inquired.“Ranaji, Prince Agastya and Prince Ranvijay have arrived at the palace,” he replied.

Hearing that, a gentle smile appeared on my face.“Ask them to wait for me in the great hall,” I instructed him, and before going to meet them, I thought of visiting the wounded soldiers.

Once I ensured everyone was receiving aid, I headed to the great hall. Upon entering the room, I found them relaxing on the couches.

“Ranvijay, Agastya,” I called to them. They sprinted toward me, throwing themselves at me. I spread my arms, embracing both my brothers and laughing heartily.

“Bhaisa,” Ranvijay pulled away, scanning me from head to toe.“Ranaji, must I say now?” he asked, while Agastya teased, being the youngest.

“I hope you won't imprison us now that you're a King, Bhaisa,” I replied, playing along.“I might,” and I pulled him into a tight hug.

“Jokes aside, I called you here because I have something important to discuss,” I said, and Agastya shook his head.

“No, no, no… I will not listen to anything before I meet my Bhabhisa. I've heard about her exceptionality and how she made you run after her,” he said mischievously, folding his arms in front of him.

I looked at Ranvijay, who stared blankly at him. He's always been like that—serious, calm, and mature, while the youngest is fun-loving and always up to mischief, seeking adventure.

My mother passed away giving birth to Agastya, so he never knew what a mother's love meant. Thus, we held Maasimaa in high regard because she took care of us.

“Agastya, listen to what Bhaisa has to say,” Ranvijay urged.

Giving him a look, Agastya replied,“No, you two rude brothers with a broody attitude cannot escape my excitement. I want to meet Bhabhisa first, that's it.” I sighed and placed my hand on his shoulder, making him look at me.

“Alright, Agastya. She is busy right now. But I'll let you meet her before lunch.” He beamed instantly and looked at Ranvijay, scrunching his nose.

“Whatever,” Ranvijay rolled his eyes.

“Okay, Ranvijay, we must appoint new members to rebuild the committee of high ranks in the royal court. I am proposing that you become my chief advisor,” I said, patting his shoulder to show how much I trusted him. He looked at me, surprised.

“Me? Bhaisa, do you think I can do it?” he asked, and I nodded.

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